I think CCC is basically in the same bracket as DEF CON in terms of seriousness. Someone's going to get mad at me for saying that, but I'll note that serious people go to DEF CON too, even though it is 100% a cultural event and not a real part of the cite record for our field.

I've never heard anyone say anything but good things about REcon. I have FOMO about having never been.

Thanks for sharing. I'm actually close to Montreal so REcon is probably my best bet. The ticket is more expensive but I save lodging and transportation.

Hugo, the organizer of Recon, has historically been willing to work with people who are attending on their own dime. I suspect that if you were to send him an email explaining your situation, you'd be very happy with the response you received.

It is an excellent conference that I've enjoyed every single time I've gone

Thanks a lot! I'll definitely reach out to him next year.